Adam Johnson has been in the thoughts of every hockey fan for weeks now. Recently he was laid to rest and one NHL organization came out to pay their respects.
Winnipeg Jets Show Major Respect To Johnson
After Johnson's passing became public Winnipeg Jets defenseman Neal Pionk came out publically with his pain and grief. Johnson and Pionk were best friends going back to junior and college hockey. The loss of Johnson weighed heavily on Pionk.
«The first three days I didn't know I could cry so much,» Pionk told The Free Press. «The last couple days but some of them are good tears, too, because we've been sharing some really good stories and that's what it's all about.»
With Pionk being such a close friend to Johnson, the Jets ensured he could attend Johnson's funeral. Pionk as well as, Alex Iafallo, Dominic Toninato, and Dylan Samberg were all flown out on a private charter to attend the services.
Pionk Honors His Late Friend
On Tuesday Pionk returned to action in a game against the Saint Louis Blues. He was able to honor his friend by scoring his first goal of the season.
Neal Pionk nets his first goal of the season just one day after speaking at Adam Johnson's celebration of life
What a moment in St. Louis.
@NHLJets
Pionk was visably emotional after getting the goal which clearly meant a lot to him. Pionk and the Jets will continue to honor Johnson throughout the season with their play on the ice. For Pionk that goal will be one he remembers for the rest of his life.